The Belgrade Crypto conference, held on Friday, 12 April 2024, by one of the two registered cryptocurrency exchange offices in Serbia, CRYPTO12, shed light on the current cryptocurrency regulation and industry in Serbia. The conference brought together prominent stakeholders to share knowledge of the cryptocurrency and digital assets industry and highlight essential points in the related landscape. 

Is Serbia on the cryptocurrency regulation map?

The conference featured three insightful panels addressing key cryptocurrency regulation and innovation aspects. The first panel, 'The Crypto Conundrum: Navigating Regulatory Waters in Serbia & Beyond,' focused on Serbia's evolving crypto regulations and their impact on fostering a dynamic fintech ecosystem. Discussions included compliance strategies and the role of the International Cooperation and Development Department of the Securities Commission on behalf of the Ministry of Economy, represented by Anina Milanov?, and the participation of the Administration for the Prevention of Money Laundering on behalf of the Ministry of Finance, represented by ?or?ije Vuji?i?, along with prominent stakeholders like Erwin Voloder, Head of Policy -European Blockchain Association and other influent characters from the financial and economic realm, discussing the shaping, transforming and driving of the digital monetary politics. 

Serbia was among Europe's first nations to implement cryptocurrency asset regulation in 2021, with the Law on Digital Assets drafted by the National Bank of Serbia. The current regulatory framework was created with the help of several EU jurisdictions at the forefront of regulatory efforts in this industry. The panel also emphasised the importance of compliance with the FATF AML rules, in which Serbia made significant progress. 

The second panel, 'Crypto Crossroads: Serbia's Tax Labyrinth and Legal Landscapes,' explored the complexities of cryptocurrency tax regulations and legal frameworks, offering guidance for businesses navigating these challenges. Topics ranged from real estate transactions to payroll solutions involving cryptocurrencies held by attorneys and board members of prominent companies from the region and beyond, such as Seker, Vice President of Crypto.com or Du?an Rom?evi? -board member at B2BINPAY CY.

What to expect from the industry?

The last panel, 'Crafting the Future of Crypto Services,' delved into the future of digital currencies. Industry leaders projected advancements, a worldwide regulatory shift, and ethical considerations shaping the crypto industry's trajectory. The panel highlighted strategic directions, challenges, and opportunities defining the future of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology in Serbia and the surrounding region.

Is the EU's MICA regulation the way forward for all?

The conference provided attendees with deep insights into navigating regulatory landscapes, tax implications, and the future landscape of crypto services, bringing experts from state institutions and the private sector. The panels also included discussions about the EU's Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulation, which set the role model for the whole continent, an important piece of regulation that will most definitely play a crucial role for both EU and non-EU countries which should comply with the legislation to stay at the forefront and participate in the landscape of digital assets.